Chantilly, VA – The Virginia Aviation Awards were presented at the Virginia Aviation Conference on Wednesday, August 7. Nominations are sought from across the Commonwealth by the Virginia Department of Aviation (DOAV). Award recipients are recognized in categories such as 'Airport Manager of the Year,' 'Person of the Year,' and the coveted 'Lifetime Achievement Award.' In addition to these honors, Greg Campbell, Director of DOAV, presents a 'Director’s Award.'

The VABA is proud to announce our own Daniel “Bud” Oakey, President of the VABA, received the Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his significant impact in the aviation industry. 

As President of the VABA, Bud plays a key role in organizing Aerospace Day and the annual Aviation, Aerospace, and Advanced Air Mobility Legislative Reception. These events raise the profile of aviation and aerospace by bringing together industry leaders, legislators, and government agencies during the General Assembly Session.

As Lieutenant Colonel in the Virginia Wing of the Civil Air Patrol, Bud's strong commitment to supporting cadet programs and aerospace education reinforces the focus on the future workforce and leadership of the aerospace industry.

Finally, Bud demonstrates his leadership through his legislative work by advocating for and securing funding for aviation education, flight training, and A&P training. He leads efforts to reduce taxes on aircraft parts and maintenance across the Commonwealth and plays a key role in reestablishing the Virginia General Assembly Aviation and Aerospace Caucus (V-GAAC) to educate lawmakers on issues critical to the industry.

The VABA congratulates the other award recipients Keith Meurlin, Director’s Award; Nicholas Sabo, Airport Manager of the Year; and Carley Walker, Person of the Year Award.

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The VABA is a 501(c)6 non-profit organization which serves as the voice of aviation business in Virginia. Our mission is to promote the development of aviation business within the Commonwealth of Virginia and represent the Aviation Industry with the Commonwealth of Virginia’s legislature. We also strive to enhance the development of infrastructure of general aviation and regional airports in support of the Commonwealth and support continued improvement of airport and flight safety operations of all Virginia aviators.